Jewish General Hospital Segal Cancer Centre
BREAST CLINIC
Breast Referral and Investigation Centre
In 1998, the Quebec Breast Cancer Screening Program (PQDCS) emphasized the need for screening and encouraged all women to undergo a mammogram every two years in one of Quebec's designated radiology centres. As a result, all women in Quebec aged 50-69 are now automatically sent a letter to sensitize them to the importance of screening.
When an abnormal or suspicious result is found, the patient is referred to a specialized centre, the Breast Referral and Investigation Centre (Centre de référence et d’investigation désigné or CRID). The CRID provides expertise in investigation (additional workup involving special views, ultrasounds, tomosynthesis or breast MRI) and diagnosis (stereotactic, ultrasound, and MRI-guided biopsy).
In the CRID, women are cared for by a competent team of nurses, technologists, and breast radiologists who provide individualized diagnostic care. Women are supported and guided through a trajectory of care, including follow up imaging or referral to our specialized breast surgeons.
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Mammography
A mammogram uses low dose x-ray images of the breast to identify masses, abnormal nodules, or calcium deposits (microcalcifications). Screening mammograms are used for early detection of breast cancer in women without any signs or symptoms of cancer. Diagnostic mammograms are used to further evaluate breast tissue in women who have signs of cancer or an abnormality on screening mammogram. Diagnostic mammograms often involve magnifying breast tissue or taking additional pictures/views of the breast to allow the radiologist to better pinpoint and examine the area of possible concern.
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Breast Ultrasound
An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to take pictures of the inside of the breast, and is commonly used before or after a mammogram to better evaluate breast tissue. Ultrasounds can help determine if a breast lump or abnormality is a benign nodule, cyst, or a suspicious mass. An ultrasound can also help to identify the location of a breast lump for biopsy.
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Image Guided Biopsies
A biopsy is a procedure where a small sample of tissue is removed from the breast and examined under the microscope. Image guided biopsies include biopsies performed with the help of ultrasound (ultrasound-guided biopsy) or mammogram (stereotactic biopsy) to locate the precise area of the abnormality.
If a biopsy is required, our breast centre nurse will speak to you prior to your biopsy date to review the procedure. Please bring your medication list to your appointment. The biopsy results will be sent to your referring physician within 2 weeks following the procedure.
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Bilateral Breast MRI
Breast MRI involves lying face down in a scanning machine that uses magnetic fields to look inside the breast. MRI and mammograms are used together to screen women at very high risk of developing breast cancer. Diagnostic MRIs can also be used to help evaluate a breast cancer when other imaging tests do not show clear results, or when patients need additional treatment before surgery like chemotherapy. Please note our MRI department is located in general radiology, Pavilion D, 2nd Floor, Room D-205.
Contact Us
Breast Diagnostic & Imaging Centre (CRID)
Jewish General Hospital E-Pavillion, 10e étage / 10th floor
Tel: 514-340-7997
Fax: 514-​340-7942